In Easter Message, Tinubu Urges Peaceful Politics, Respect for Electoral Act

President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians and political actors to embrace peaceful politics and strict adherence to the Electoral Act as the country gradually approaches another electoral cycle, even as he reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to deal decisively with terrorists and bandits through strengthened local efforts and international partnerships.

In his 2026 Easter message on Friday, the President rejoiced with Nigerians at home and abroad, noting that the season signifies the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the redemptive power of salvation for humanity.

He said Easter embodies the values of sacrifice, resilience, and the triumph of light over darkness, stressing that the message resonates deeply with Nigeria’s current realities amid economic strain and security challenges.

“For us in Nigeria, the essence resonates with our current realities as we navigate a period marked by economic strain and security challenges, even as determined efforts are underway to address them,” he stated.

Acknowledging ongoing security challenges despite “the good efforts of the administration and the gallant efforts of our men and women of the Armed Forces who leave behind their families to confront the evil actors in our land,” Tinubu said his government was making resources available and forging foreign partnerships to confront threats decisively.

“However, my administration continues to make resources available and forge foreign partnerships to enable us to deal decisive blows to the agents of terror and banditry,” he said.

The President recalled his recent visit to Jos, Plateau State, where he commiserated with victims of violence and reassured residents of improved security.

“On Thursday, I was in Jos to commiserate with people of Plateau State, share in their grief, and offer reassurances of better days to come. The leaders of the nation’s security institutions have given strong assurances of progress. We have also sought and are receiving assistance from outside our shores,” he added.

He expressed confidence that Nigerians appreciate the administration’s efforts, while reiterating the need for unity and collective responsibility.

“I am reassured that the citizens appreciate our efforts. I will continue to remind us of the imperative of unity and oneness. No nation can thrive where fear prevails, and no progress can be sustained without peace,” Tinubu said.

Addressing other parts of the country experiencing insecurity, he assured that “concerted efforts are already yielding breakthroughs,” and urged citizens to support lawful efforts and reject forces that threaten national well-being.

“I therefore call upon all citizens to support lawful efforts, be our brothers’ keeper, and reject all forces that threaten our collective well-being,” he stated.

On the economy, the President defended ongoing reforms, acknowledging their immediate impact while insisting they are necessary for long-term prosperity.

“The ongoing reforms, though demanding in their immediate impact, have been carefully put together and backed by a strong commitment to take us to a shared prosperity,” he said.

“As I have often said, true transformation cannot be achieved without sacrifice, and history affirms that enduring progress is often forged in moments such as these.”

Turning to the political climate, Tinubu urged stakeholders to act with maturity and responsibility as the electoral season approaches.

“As the nation gradually approaches another electoral cycle, this season also serves as a call to civic duty and maturity. The Electoral Act must guide the conduct of our political parties and political actors,” he said.

“Let our choices be guided by a shared commitment to peace, continuity, stability, and the long-term good of our country. Democracy flourishes where responsibility, restraint, and informed participation prevail.”

He added that Easter offers hope and reassurance that the country is on the right path despite prevailing challenges.

“Easter gives us the encouragement and confidence that, even as present conditions still put pressure on many of our people, economic indicators show we are making the right choices. A new dawn is on the horizon,” the President said.

Tinubu thanked Nigerians for their continued support, pledging to justify their trust and urging them to remain steadfast.

“Fellow Nigerians, you have been very supportive of my administration because you trust our ability to make our nation better. I will continue to serve to retain your trust. I enjoin you to keep the faith, and never cease to contribute to the progress and greater future we seek, each in our own way, to the emergence of a democratically stronger, more prosperous, and a safer nation,” he stated.

He wished Nigerians a Happy Easter.